Blackouts, Brownouts, and Pass-Outs: Breaking Down Alcohol’s Effects on Memory / EP 94

Sober & Lit Podcast

Sober & Lit Podcast
Blackouts, Brownouts, and Pass-Outs: Breaking Down Alcohol’s Effects on Memory / EP 94
Oct 28, 2025 Season 2 Episode 94
Susan Larkin & Ruby Williams

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Ever lost time after a night out and thought, “Wait… what did I say?”

You’re not alone—and it’s not just “part of drinking.” In this episode of Sober & Lit, Ruby and Susan pull back the curtain on a topic many avoid: alcohol-induced blackouts. From stories of forgotten conversations and tricky gray areas to the terrifying reality of memory loss after just a few drinks, we shed light on the neurological impact of alcohol and why some people are more susceptible to blackouts than others.

What actually happens in your brain when memories disappear?
✨ Why do some people black out from just a few drinks—while others don't?
✨ And what are the long-term risks no one talks about?

This isn't about shame—it's about science. We share our personal blackout, brownout and pass-out stories, explore the brain-based reasons behind them, and debunk the myth that forgetting your night means you just had “too much fun.” 

Whether you’ve experienced fuzzy nights, want to understand how alcohol hijacks memory, or you’re sober curious and ready to learn, this episode is for you. Stay with us 'til the end—we’ll leave you with ways to feel lit  without wiping out your memories.

Tune in now and get real about alcohol, blackouts, and reclaiming your presence.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
👉 The most important lesson from 83,000 brain scans | Daniel Amen | TEDxOrangeCoast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esPRsT-lmw8
👉 Blackout: Remembering the Things I Drank to Forget is a memoir by Sarah Hepola
👉 Movie: The Girl On The Train starring Emily Blunt; based on the bestselling novel The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins (2015) 

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Connect with the Podcast Hosts:
Susan Larkin Coaching https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/
Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice regarding your health before attempting to take a break from alcohol. The creators, hosts, and producers of the The Feel Lit Alcohol Free podcast are not healthcare practitioners and therefore do not give medical, or psychological advice nor do they intend for the podcast, any resource or communication on behalf of the podcast or otherwise to be a substitute for such.

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